THE EDITOR, Sir:
THERE HAS been some speculation relating to Highway 2000 in the press recently which is probably caused by a lack of knowledge. We seek to address these issues by posing questions and providing the answers.
Q. Why is there only one Toll Plaza allowing one to get off and on the road in some cases without paying?
A. The Toll system is an "open system" as opposed to a "closed system". You only pay when you pass through the Toll gate.
Q. When the road is extended will the Toll Plaza be demolished?
A. No, it will not and it will be the only Toll Plaza on the Sandy Bay/Mandela Highway section of the route.
Q. Will taxpayer money be wasted?
A. No it will not. This project is funded at risk by the Private Sector. No taxpayer money is being used.
Q. Is the Toll road viable?
A. Of course or it would not have attracted interest from and finally a commitment to invest by the Private Sector.
Q. Will Government vehicles travel free?
A. No, only emergency vehicles, police and the army enjoy free passage.
Q. Are details of the contract secret?
A. Absolutely not. The whole tender process has been transparent and the contract documents are posted on the web site www.h2kjamaica.com.
Q. Will the Government pay compensation if they maintain the alternative routes?
A. No, it is their duty to do so.
Q. Will the Government pay compensation if the train service is reinstated?
A. No, they will not.
Q. Have the "Toll Managers" been guaranteed a certain rate of profit?
A. No the private investors are totally at risk. We are always available to answer questions or to clarify matters.
I am etc.
TREVOR JACKSON
Managing Director
TransJamaican Highway
50 Knutsford Boulevard
Kingston 5
